the city. >> we are proud. and people here that have kind of stuck this thing out -- >> reporter: there are still lingering scars. this weekend is a milestone. hotel rooms are full. and the economic boost could top $430 million. mardi gras will add to the total. >> all this money is going to really help all the local people who have really suffered for, you know, what has it been, eight years? >> reporter: as the kickoff nears, the brother coaches, john and jim harbaugh, fielded questions today before taking the field. >> there's no better coach than the national football league than this guy sitting right here. >> well, jack harbaugh, he's pretty darn good. >> that's true. >> reporter: no matter which team you're rooting for. >> nothing finer than being a 49er. >> go reasons! >> reporter: there's little doubt, everyone is cheering for new orleans. could anything make this super bowl weekend better? >> if the saints were in it. >> if the saints were in it, that would be the only awesome thing. >> reporter: well